Nxled tests a Capital1 side missing its starting wingers as the Premier Volleyball League On Tour Showdown travels to Chavit Coliseum in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur today.
Without the firepower of Bella Belen and star pickups Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos, all eyes will be on 2026 Rookie Draft No. 2 overall pick Detdet Pepito as she makes her debut for the Solar Spikers in their 4 p.m. clash with the talent-laden Chameleons – a marquee matchup worthy of the wait after a two-week break with both sides eager to make an early statement in the six-week pre-season festivities, where every result carries added weight.
Capital1, which will not have its powerful trio due to national team commitment, also boasts a formidable middle rotation bannered by Cherry Nunag, Ezra Madrigal, KC Galdones, Pauline Gaston and Pia Abbu, giving the squad balance and depth at the net against an Nxled side that has likewise reinforced its frontline.
Pepito, a decorated libero in her student-athlete era, will form a dependable trio with Roma Mae Doromal and Rachel Jorvina.
Meanwhile, Capital1’s second round selection Khy Cepada will reinforce the team’s wings that lack their Alas stars, joining Trisha Genesis, Ysa Jimenez, Leila Cruz, Sydney Niegos, and France Ronquillo.
The Chameleons counter with a loaded lineup featuring former Cignal standout Jackie Acuña, MJ Phillips, Krich Macaslang, Aduke Ogunsanya, and veteran Aby Maraño in the middle, while banking on the explosive wing combination of Brooke Van Sickle, Myla Pablo, Jonah Escamillan, and Lyann De Guzman. Chiara Permentilla and EJ Laure are also expected to provide additional firepower whenever called upon.
With talent spread across both rosters, fans can expect long rallies, thunderous attacks, and fierce battles above the net in what shapes up as one of the most anticipated early clashes in the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
Nxled, however, enters the match with greater urgency after absorbing a four-set defeat to Creamline in its opening assignment in Ilagan City last July 9.
(C) PVL Images
The nightcap at 6:30 p.m. also promises plenty of intrigue as last year’s On Tour champion PLDT finally opens its campaign against Choco Mucho.
On paper, the High Speed Hitters appear deeper and more experienced, with Savi Davison, Kim Dy, Kath Arado, and Majoy Baron, leading a roster further reinforced by draft pick No. 7 Fianne Ariola and free agency signing Joan Monares, who are likewise expected to make their presence felt as PLDT seeks to build on the momentum of last year’s On Tour success that eventually led to its PVL Invitational championship.
Still, the lengthy layoff could pose an early challenge as the High Speed Hitters look to quickly rediscover their rhythm.
Choco Mucho, meanwhile, continues to cope with the absence of national team standouts Sisi Rondina, Eya Laure, and Dawn Catindig, placing greater responsibility on No. 3 overall pick Tin Ubaldo, Isa Molde, Jewel Encarnacion, Kat Tolentino, Caitlin Viray, and Dindin Manabat to keep the Flying Titans competitive.
PLDT is seen as the heavy favorite, according to Casino Plus sportsbook, as it is favored to win by 2.5 sets. The total points over/under is set at 135.5.
Bets can be placed here: https://www.casinoplus.com.ph/home/inGame?name=Volleyball&title=SportBet.
Meanwhile, the PVL On Tour Showdown heads to South Cotabato for the first time on Aug. 1, with Nxled taking on Galeries Tower at 4 p.m. before Akari battles Choco Mucho at 6:30 p.m. in Polomolok.
ZUS Coffee currently sets the early pace with back-to-back victories over Akari and Choco Mucho, while Creamline and Galeries Tower trail closely behind after the Highrisers pulled off an early tournament surprise by defeating the Farm Fresh Foxies in four.
